I was on the hunt this week for something that contained neither turkey nor cranberry sauce as I am assured plenty of that in the coming days because I am making it myself. To satisfy that desire I have been hitting various restaurants across Dallas to share with you.

Last Saturday I enjoy some of my favorite dishes at Samar by Stephan Pyles on Ross Avenue. I didn’t snap any photos, but the Moutabal which is part of the trio of spreads served with fresh naan was pretty amazing. Consider it a kicked up baba ghanouj that is very smoky and creamy. The Tiger Prawns “Bombay Style” with Crispy Okra and Spiced Pear Chutney is always a winner.

Here are a few other favorites you might enjoy.

Lee Harvey, you are a mad man. And I enjoyed your burger as much as any in Dallas. This half pound grilled burger comes complete with bacon and cheese. Not the cat named Bacon, just the smoky pork belly.

The Monte Cristo at The Holy Grail Pub is made with ham, turkey, Swiss and American Cheeses, then deep fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar then served with a side of blackberry preserves. One slice is all anyone really needs, but damned if two is not better. By the way, Holy Grail was on a long list of pubs I called today looking for pumpkin beer. Couldn’t find a drop on tap anywhere.

Rex’s Seafood has one of the very best Lobster Rolls in Dallas. Oh, yea, there are other places including Sea Breeze in Plano (featured last week) and Tesar makes one on occasion at The Commissary. Rex does a fine job and it was delicious.

Ran over to the newly remodeled Cafe Istanbul last night and devoured this beautiful lamb shank. It had been a long time since I was last in the restaurant, and was happy to see some familiar faces – and dishes. Located at Lovers and Inwood across the road from the next resaturant.

This sublime Marshmallow Soup at Rise No. 1 actually contains no marshmallows. The Stay Puft Man might be dissapointed, but I wasn’t when I sat before this fanciful bowl of tomato-carrot bisque soup topped with tiny toasted goat cheese souffles and pesto. End the evening with a pumpkin souffle for a rise to your feet applause of a meal.